For the second year in succession, St. Louis University's soccer season began with a loss to New Mexico.

The Billikens were blanked by the Lobos at home in 2009, and Wednesday night they dropped a 3-2 decision in Albuquerque.

SLU broke on top with a goal by freshman Christian Briggs in the 11th minute, on a play set up by sophomore Alex Sweetin.

New Mexico scored three times before the Billikens benefited from an own goal late in the second half.

"We knew it was going to be a tough game," coach Mike McGinty said. "New Mexico is a good team and they had us on our heels for much of the night. It's disappointing because we had our moments and had a lead in the first half. Now we have to regroup and get ready for Saturday."

SLU's home opener is 7 p.m. Saturday at Hermann Stadium against South Florida (0-1-0).

Information for this story provided by Brian Kunderman of SLU's media relations department.